What Does the Fox say from the Other Side?
There are so many ways that I still feel my dad in my life. It's a comfort and it's a reminder that although I wish he was here, he isn't missing anything. Although I am missing him, he is all around.
At times when I am missing him, or I have bad news or good news I always seem to see something to remind me of him. It's usually an animal. Butterflies because they were around a lot right after he passed and I believe that he was more comfortable where he was. It reminds me that things will be okay. Hawks because we had a nest of them that lived in our woods when I was growing up, that we love to watch. They remind me to be strong. Foxes because my dad had a great sense of humor and a bit of mischief. The remind me to not take things too seriously and that this life can be magical.
We have a fox that lives in the woods near our house. He's been making a lot of appearences. I have had a wonderful week, full of fabulous news and great opportunities. At first I felt so overwhelmed and stressed I completely forgot to celebrate and be joyous. This morning as I was making a concerted effort to find space in my day, but enjoying the morning on our porch, our fox walked right past me. After I enjoyed the magic feeling that induces, I realized that it was a good reminder to not take it too seriously. Yes it's awesome and a big deal, but it should be fun and exciting too.
Years ago I had a dream, during a particular stressful time in my life. In it a snake went past me and there was a skulk of foxes tearing apart this large box. I remember thinking how vicious it was and felt a bit scared. When the box finally came apart it was full of flip flops. Bright colorful flip flops exploded everywhere! At the time I wasn't sure what to make of it right away. I ended up painting about it. I finally thought it was again a reminder to find the silly, the joy and the magic especially when it's the hardest to do so.
Dream House 30x40" oil and graphite on canvas 2004